NJ seeks to revoke permit of pharmacy in probe

Friday, April 26, 2013

TRENTON (AP) — The state of New Jersey announced Friday it will seek to revoke the permit of a compounding pharmacy that is under investigation after some of its products were discovered to be contaminated with mold.

Tinton Falls-based Med Prep Consulting ceased operations last month after it was revealed the pharmacy had shipped intravenous bags contaminated with mold to a Connecticut hospital. The pharmacy and the Food and Drug Administration announced a national recall of all products compounded by Med Prep.

No injuries or illnesses have been linked to the contamination.

On Friday, New Jersey Attorney General Jeffrey Chiesa announced the state will seek to have the pharmacy’s permit revoked due to “multiple allegations of gross negligence and professional misconduct.”

Med Prep is a compounding pharmacy, which means it mixes custom formulations of drugs to meet doctors’ specifications. The state alleges the company labeled products incorrectly, didn’t adequately test its products and compromised the sterility of work areas.

After the company submits a response to the allegations, the state Board of Pharmacy will determine whether to hear the case or refer it to an administrative law judge.

The pharmacy board ruled this week that Med Prep can resume operations but on a limited basis and under the supervision of a monitor.

The company didn’t return a message left after hours at its offices Friday.